Los Angeles High School student Joanna Manansala high-fives John De Toro, who helps coach the team, and fellow student Salome Ok after completing the speech and interview portions of the competition.

Los Angeles High School student Joanna Manansala high-fives John De Toro, who helps coach the team, and fellow student Salome Ok after completing the speech and interview portions of the competition. (Gina Ferazzi / Los Angeles Times)

Los Angeles High School student Joanna Manansala high-fives John De Toro, who helps coach the team, and fellow student Salome Ok after completing the speech and interview portions of the competition.